Understanding Fears and Phobias
Specific phobias involve an excessive, unreasonable and persistent fear that is triggered by the anticipation or presence of a specific object or situation, such as flying, seeing a dog or having an injection.
Key factors include:
People can develop phobias in five main areas: Animal phobias, Natural Environment, Situational, Blood Injury, and a general category referred to as Other. Specific phobias are learnt and can be progressively managed through a systematic process of graded exposure. This is done using both cognitive and behavioural techniques and is always managed in a safe and controlled manner.
Key factors include:
- Exposure to the object or trigger almost always provokes an immediate anxiety response, which may take the form of a situationally specific panic attack.
- The individual recognises that the fear is excessive or unreasonable.
- The phobic situation is avoided or else is endured with intense anxiety or distress
People can develop phobias in five main areas: Animal phobias, Natural Environment, Situational, Blood Injury, and a general category referred to as Other. Specific phobias are learnt and can be progressively managed through a systematic process of graded exposure. This is done using both cognitive and behavioural techniques and is always managed in a safe and controlled manner.
How You Can Treat Fears and Phobias
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Research demonstrates that phobias can be effectively treated using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. CBT is the recommended treatment for phobias and offers a fast and practical basis for overcoming the problem. Unlike some of the more traditional therapeutic approaches or passive counselling techniques, CBT deals with the behavioural responses, negative reinforcement and emotional / physiological reactions that keep the problem going. You can find out more about CBT here. |
Virtual Reality Therapy Dr Laoudi can use Virtual Reality can to simulate situations that trigger phobia or stress. She observes what patients are seeing while they navigate the virtual experience and coaches the patient to take on increasingly difficult challenges while making sure that the person does not become overwhelmed. Through graduated exposure, patients become desensitised to their trauma and learn not to panic, all in a controlled environment. You can find out more about Virtual Reality Therapy here. |
Dr Marietta Laoudi is a highly experienced CBT Therapist
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is the treatment of choice for fears & phobias, anxiety and stress, depression, low self-esteem, grief and bereavement, sleeping problems, as well as a wide range of other issues. CBT is evidence-based, which means that it has been proven to work quickly and with lasting effects.
CBT is a collaborative process. Together we work towards resolving your issues in a safe and confidential environment; making you happier at home, professionally and in your social life.
I offer individual face-to-face Cognitive and Behavioural Therapy sessions in my private practice in West London (Fulham), on the telephone and on Skype.
CBT is a collaborative process. Together we work towards resolving your issues in a safe and confidential environment; making you happier at home, professionally and in your social life.
I offer individual face-to-face Cognitive and Behavioural Therapy sessions in my private practice in West London (Fulham), on the telephone and on Skype.
